Originally Posted by Busboy

Domestic, you can still swap, trade, etc.

Intl, once you've deviated, it's yours.

CBA 8.C.1.b. Trip Trade Restrictions After Notification (International Deadheads)

After a pilot provides notification of his deviation from a scheduled international deadhead, he may not trade, drop or authorize a personal bump on the international trip containing the deadhead, unless authorized by CRS, or his ACP. For purposes of this paragraph, an international deadhead shall be a deadhead that originates or terminates in a location outside the contiguous 48 United States, Canada or Mexico.

Intent: This is necessary because, when the pilot notifies the Company of his intention to deviate, the Company cancels the original deadhead reservation in order not to be double charged. Many carriers are requiring cancellation at least 48 hours prior to departure in order to ensure proper credit.

As far as words of wisdom...When I'm short of dev bank money(always, it seems), I will occasionally purchase a non-refundable ticket on the front end, if I'm sure I'm going to fly the trip(and it's not an xtra-pairing). I never buy a refundable for the tail end due to revisions, delays, etc.

Don't forget to check in. Initial check-in, 48hrs-4hrs prior to showtime of scheduled D/H. Final check-in, at least 8 hrs in N. America and 12hrs outside of N. America prior to first flight's showtime. I suggest doing your final check in as soon as you get in the terminal. Otherwise, you will forget eventually.